Earlier today astronaut Neil Armstrong passed away at the age of 82. His first walk on the moon's surface, an amazing feat regardless of nationality or politics, set America on the path of great achievements in space.
NASA released this statement from his family:
We are heartbroken to share the news that Neil Armstrong has passed away
following complications resulting from cardiovascular procedures.
Neil was our loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.
Neil Armstrong was also a reluctant American hero who always believed
he was just doing his job. He served his Nation proudly, as a navy
fighter pilot, test pilot, and astronaut. He also found success back
home in his native Ohio in business and academia, and became a community
leader in Cincinnati.
He remained an advocate of aviation and exploration throughout his life and never lost his boyhood wonder of these pursuits.
As much as Neil cherished his privacy, he always appreciated the
expressions of good will from people around the world and from all walks
of life.
While we mourn the loss of a very good man, we also
celebrate his remarkable life and hope that it serves as an example to
young people around the world to work hard to make their dreams come
true, to be willing to explore and push the limits, and to selflessly
serve a cause greater than themselves.
For those who may ask
what they can do to honor Neil, we have a simple request. Honor his
example of service, accomplishment and modesty, and the next time you
walk outside on a clear night and see the moon smiling down at you,
think of Neil Armstrong and give him a wink.